UN Tourism names 52 villages worldwide as Best Tourism Villages 2025, signalling a global shift towards slow, sustainable, rural travel. (Image by SangaPark)
Slow travel isn’t just a trend anymore; it’s now a global policy. UN Tourism has announced its Best Tourism Villages 2025, recognising 52 rural communities across 29 countries that are changing how tourism can support culture, livelihoods, and local identity without losing authenticity.
From Japan and Türkiye to Indonesia, Vietnam, Slovenia, and Mauritius, this year’s list highlights places that prioritise people over crowds, heritage over hype, and sustainability over speed. For those seeking meaning over mass tourism, the message is clear: the future of travel is quieter, slower, and rooted in community.
Why villages—and why now?
Launched in 2021, the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiative was created to highlight rural destinations that use tourism as a tool for long-term development, rather than short-term gain. Villages are assessed in nine areas, including cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, economic resilience, governance, and community wellbeing.
As overtourism continues to burden major cities, these villages provide a compelling alternative—one where travel supports local economies, preserves traditions, and fosters genuine connections.
Asia and beyond: Villages to watch
Several Asian destinations stood out on this year’s list, offering inspiration for travellers closer to home:
- Asuka and Shodoshima, Japan: Where ancient history, olive groves, and slow island life take the spotlight.
- Pemuteran, Indonesia: A coastal village known for community-led marine conservation.
- Quynh Son and Lô Lô Chải, Vietnam: Showcasing ethnic heritage, homestays, and sustainable rural tourism.
- Akyaka and Anıtlı, Türkiye: Blending local architecture, nature, and living traditions.
- Muju Village, South Korea: A mountain village offering forest walks, hiking trails, and a slower, nature-led experience.
Elsewhere, villages like Bled (Slovenia), Chamarel (Mauritius), and Masfout (UAE) show how diverse landscapes and cultures can embrace tourism without losing their essence.
A growing network
Beyond the 52 newly recognised villages, 20 additional communities joined the Upgrade Programme, receiving guidance to improve areas such as infrastructure, sustainability, and governance. Together, they form the Best Tourism Villages Network, which now includes 319 rural destinations worldwide sharing knowledge, best practices, and resources. See the full list here.
